Living With a Deaf Dog
I’m a deaf dog.
It’s likely I was born deaf, as many white dogs are due to underdeveloped pigmentation within our ears. However, any dog can become deaf due to illness, accidents, and old age.
This article highlights some useful tips for living with a deaf dog.
We understand sign language.
Deaf dogs learn in the same way that hearing dogs do: when a behaviour is rewarded, we’ll do it more often. All we need is for our humans to decide on a set of clear hand signals, stock up on treats, and dedicate some time to reward-based training.
Some of the tricks I know so far include:
- Sit
- Lay
- Stay
- Stop
- Walk to Heel
- Recall
- Shake Hands
- High Five
- Speak on Command
- Weave (figure eights around objects)
- Go to Bed
- Sit on the Sofa
- Touch (a target)
- Spin Around (both directions)
- Dance
Let’s be honest, that’s more than plenty of hearing dogs know!
Use a long line for added peace of mind.
A long line is an extra-lengthy lead, usually measuring 10 metres or more. You don’t need to hold the lead by a handle; simply attach it to your dog’s collar or harness and it will drag behind them as they explore the park, then when you need them to stop, you can just step on the lead.
Long lines are beneficial to many dog owners, especially those in the process of teaching recall to their dogs (or for dogs who don’t respond well to their name!), as it can prevent your dog from running over to strangers, other animals, or even out of an open gate.
If you’re walking a deaf dog who can’t hear their name being called, a long line provides reassurance, as you can ensure your dog gets the exercise she/he needs without being put in danger.
Vibration collars are excellent for recall.
A vibration collar is a normal dog collar that comes with a remote control and the capacity to vibrate. You can see me wearing mine in the picture above.
I’ve been trained to look at Josanne and Richard whenever they press the vibration button. Once they have my attention, they can then give me a hand signal so I know what to do, whether it’s sit, stay, or return to them.
We don’t use this at home but it’s extremely valuable outdoors or in new places, as it enables us to check-in with each other regularly.
We won’t upset the postman!
As I can’t hear the doorbell, I can quite happily sleep through a delivery, which can avoid a lot of fuss and barking. Likewise, Firework Night is a breeze!
However, that doesn’t mean you won’t get a warm greeting when you come in. Using my brilliant sense of smell, I always know when Josanne and Richard are home, and I give them an enthusiastic welcome every time.
Do you live with a deaf dog? Post your best tips below.
Photo Credit: Mina Milanovic Photography.